Historic Vegas: 4 Must-Visit Stops Beyond the Strip

When most people think of Las Vegas, they instantly think of bright lights, glamorous casinos, and the famous Strip. But for some, the busy part of the city doesn't have the charm and vintage flair that Vegas is known for. 

Maybe you've already visited the Las Vegas Strip often enough, or maybe you're looking for a something different, with more history, character, and a hint of the past.

If that sounds like you, we've got exactly what you're looking for. Today, we’ll tell you about all the historic places in Las Vegas that are worth visiting.

 

Why Should You Visit Historic Downtown Las Vegas?

If you're not yet convinced that Las Vegas’s historic sites are worth a visit, let's take a look into the past: Downtown Las Vegas, especially Fremont Street, was once the heart of the city, long before the modern Strip existed. This is where the first casinos and neon lights made their debut. It’s what gave Las Vegas its nickname, “Sin City.”

The area has a charming, old-fashioned feel and will give you a glimpse of what Las Vegas was like decades ago. If you’re interested in history or just want a unique experience, downtown Las Vegas is something you shouldn’t skip when visiting.

The 4 Must-See Historic Places in Downtown Las Vegas

So, what are the must-visit historic places in Las Vegas? What are the best museums, and where should you really go? Here’s a list of four places that are absolutely worth a visit:

1. Main Street Station

Main Street Station is a hotel – however, it's more than that. It's filled with treasures from all around the world.

When you go inside, you'll find antiques like chandeliers from the Paris Opera House, as well as beautiful bronze doors from the Kuwait Royal Bank. You can even find a piece of the Berlin Wall. Stop by the lobby for a map. 

There are early slot machines, Wurlitzer's, old saloon pianos, and an early railway car that either belonged to Louisa May Alcott or Wild Buffalo Bill. Look for the poem in ceiling, and check out the beautiful stained glass windows (they even make our top places for unique Vegas photos). 

Walking through Main Street Station is like walking through a museum…. There's real history everywhere you look.

2. Fremont Street Experience

Vegas doesn’t get any more Vegas than Fremont. If you’re wondering, “Should I make a trip to Fremont Street, is it worth it?” our answer is a very clear yes.

There is no place like Fremont Street anywhere else in the world. It’s an open-air market with shops, restaurants, and casinos. Of course, there’s the canopy, a dazzling light display that covers the entire street.

And then, the Vegas history. Fremont street was the first ‘Las Vegas Strip’ and where all the action happened.  Walking here is as close to experiencing the city's early lively days as you’re going to find. Many of the lights still retain the vintage Vegas feel. They’re round, glittery, and non-LED. If you wonder what the difference is, then head over there and see what I mean.

The carousel bar is a great place to start. While the actual bar is a more recent installation, it has been crafted to retain the same look and feel of vintage casinos. Then, walk across the street and under the Circa valet. Every casino on this street has its own historic flair and just as many stories to go with them. There’s half a century of them in our self-guided app. So pick it up for $20 and have your own personal guide pointing the way.

There's not really such a thing as a bad time to visit, day and night are bustling. If you want to hear the live music on any of the 6 stages, then go at night. That’s when the street has it’s namesake feel, Glitter Gulch, and the lights really shine

3. The Mob Museum

The Mob Museum, also called the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, tells the fascinating story of the mob’s role in making Las Vegas what it is today. Here, you'll learn about famous mobsters, their connection to Vegas, and the law enforcement efforts to stop them. There are interactive exhibits and real-life stories, so don’t worry about being bored — the Mob Museum brings the wild history of Las Vegas to life.

And, the speakeasy in the basement is one of our favorites. They have moonshine you can take home to your friends and special drink keepsakes like this white ceramic bathtub. Speakeasies often require a password, and this one is no exception. Check out their Instagram page for the weekly word, or download our Secret Vegas Hot Spots List for this one, and many more.

4. The Neon Museum

Is the Neon Museum worth it? Yes! The Neon Museum is another one of the best museums in Las Vegas. It’s an outdoor space filled with vintage neon signs from Las Vegas’s past. You'll see signs from old casinos and businesses. It’s definitely a great spot for taking pictures – and you should not miss out if you love vintage Las Vegas.

Make the Most of Your Las Vegas Walking Tour

Of course, there are more historic places in Las Vegas that are worth a visit, but these four spots are an amazing start and enough to fill your day trip or weekend trip to Las Vegas.

Before we let you go to explore all these amazing places by yourself, you might want to check out our FREE one hour walking tour of downtown Las Vegas.

Another great option so you don’t miss anything, is downloading our self-guided app. This allows you to stop exactly where you want to stop, and you have all the information to make the most out of your trip.

And, if you want the full shebang, our in-person walking tour covers the historic areas, and the modern, and our local expert guides are guaranteed to show you a side of Vegas you have never seen before.